ALL ABOUT KRYPTON

Physical Properties
 Phase: Gas
 Appearance: A colorless, odourless gas at room temperature. As a solid, it forms a white
crystal with a face-centered cubic structure. In a vacuum discharge tube, Krypton emits
primarily a mixture of green and yellow light.
 Density: 3.73 g/L
 Boiling Point: - 153.3° C
 Melting Point: - 157.2 ° C
 Soluble in water?: No
 Conducts electricity and heat?: No

Chemical Properties
Although noble gases are unreactive by nature, Krypton is not entirely. Scientists have discovered that
it is possible to combine Krypton with Fluorine, the most active element. This compound, Krypton
Difluoride (KrF 2 ), is not commercially available and are only lab curiosities.

Bohr-Rutherford Diagram

Common Compounds that Krypton is found in

As a noble gas, Krypton is unreactive by nature, but compounds of Krypton have been prepared in the
lab. The most common artificial compound is between Krypton and Fluorine and they form Krypton
Difluoride (KrF 2 ).

How Krypton affects the environment?

Krypton is non-toxic, chemically inert, and will cause no long term ecological effects. Although, its
extreme cold temperature of -244 o C will freeze organisms on contact.

The uses for Krypton and its impact on society and/or the economy
When an electric current passes through Krypton gas, a very bright light is created and is the reason
why it is commercially used in various kinds of lamps/lights and camera flashes by itself or in
collaboration with other Noble Gases. A common light source Krypton can be found in are airport
runway lights as they produce great amounts of light that can be seen up to 300 metres away.
Although not as common, Krypton is also found in slide and movie projectors.

2 important safety facts relating to Krypton

1. Krypton is non-flammable and is a simple asphyxiant that does not contain oxygen and may
cause asphyxia if released in a confined area. Maintain oxygen levels above 19.5%.

2. If Krypton gas is inhaled, victim(s) should be assisted to an uncontaminated area and inhale
fresh air. Quick removal from the contaminated area is most important. If breathing has
stopped, administer artificial resuscitation and supplemental oxygen. Further treatment should
be supportive.